Palmeiras vs Botafogo RJ

Match Preview: Palmeiras vs. Botafogo

Palmeiras secured their place in the Club World Cup's last 16 as Group A leaders, thanks to two late goals that earned a draw against Inter Miami on Monday. Despite trailing 2-0 after Luis Suarez's brace, the Brazilian side dominated the final stages, with Paulinho and Mauricio scoring from six on-target shots out of their last 10 attempts at Hard Rock Stadium.

The Verdao began their campaign with a 0-0 draw against Porto, followed by a 2-0 victory over Al Ahly, finishing with five points to edge out Inter Miami on goal difference. As Copa Libertadores champions in 2020 and 2021, Palmeiras have been a driving force in South America’s strong showing in the knockout rounds.

Now, Abel Ferreira’s team faces a rare all-Brazilian clash in FIFA’s premier tournament, only the second of its kind after Corinthians’ penalty-shootout win over Vasco da Gama in the 2000 final. The two sides, both recent Campeonato Brasileiro champions, last met on the opening day of the current Serie A season, playing out an intense 0-0 draw with 26 shots. Fans can anticipate another tight battle this weekend.

Botafogo, who claimed their first-ever Libertadores title last year, edged past Palmeiras 4-3 on aggregate in the last 16 of that competition. In this Club World Cup, Renato Paiva’s squad has stolen the spotlight, particularly with a stunning upset over Paris Saint-Germain—the first CONMEBOL victory against a UEFA side in the tournament since Corinthians beat Chelsea in 2012. After also defeating Seattle Sounders, Botafogo secured six points from two matches, allowing them to top Group B despite a 1-0 loss to Atletico Madrid in their final group game.

The winner of this showdown at Lincoln Financial Field will face either Benfica or Chelsea in the quarter-finals, also in Philadelphia. Palmeiras have Anibal Romero back in training, but defender Murilo’s thigh injury from the Inter Miami match could sideline him for the tournament. Bruno Fuchs or Micael are likely to pair with Gustavo Gomez in defense, while Romero may compete for a midfield spot. Ferreira is expected to stick with his regular lineup, featuring teenage star Estevao and Raphael Veiga, potentially leaving Felipe Anderson on the bench. Vitor Roque and Jose Manuel Lopez are battling to lead the attack.

Botafogo’s attack revolves around Igor Jesus, who scored twice in the group stage and has attracted interest from Nottingham Forest. He’s set to start alongside Jefferson Savarino and Artur, with Arthur Cabral and Joaquin Correa likely substitutes. In midfield, Allan, Gregore, and captain Marlon Freitas provide experience. While Vitinho is fit despite a thigh concern, Bastos is ruled out with a knee injury.

This high-stakes clash promises drama as both Brazilian giants vie for a spot in the quarter-finals.